FAQS
You’ve Got Questions - I’ve Got Answers
WHAT IS AN NP (NURSE PRACTITIONER)?
Nurse practitioners or NP is a healthcare practitioner with advanced training and education, beyond that required for Registered Nurses (RNs). NPs traditionally have at least a Master’s level preparation. Some, however, elect to pursue doctoral studies so as to better leverage evidence-based research to improve the quality of patient care. The scope of practice for both Master and Doctoral prepared NPs do, however, remain the same. NPs may specialize in a particular area, such as family, pediatrics, oncology or women’s health. Unlike RNs, NPs can order tests and write prescriptions, diagnose conditions and develop treatment plans. In order to practice, NPs are also required to have hundreds of hours of clinical practice and to obtain certification. They often work independently or collaboratively with their physicians collegues prividing primary or specilized care. Equally important is the fact that they not only serve in providing direct patient care but often find themselves in such settings like academia or in policy making were they help drive the required shift in the paradigm of how patient care is delivered.
WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE AN NP?
Many communities across the country rely solely on Nurse Practitioners for their care and expertise in addressing their health needs. In New York City, there is a large community of individuals who cannot access healthcare because their physical limitations do not allow them to independently leave their homes. Nurse Practitioner, with their strong nursing and medical backgrounds, are excellent choices for the care of this population.
CAN AN NPÂ SERVE AS A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER?
Yes. A Nurse Practitioner is held to the same ethical and legal standards of a Physician. They are independent providers, may diagnose, prescribe, order therapeutic treatments and diagnostic testing, and treat patients according to New York State Law. The NP model has been gaining popularity for its patient- centered approach to care, and many patients prefer the NP model as their choice for delivering primary care.
WHAT SERVICES CAN AN NP PROVIDE?
Nurse practitioners not only provide many of the same services you would find at your doctor’s office such as the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions by ordering diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and manage both acute and chronic illness they also spend time building a trusting relationship with you in which you are encouraged to participate and ask questions, and explore all your healthcare options without feeling rushed.  The care is less paternalistic and more collaborative. The nurse practitioner will provide you the tailored information in order to allow you to make an informed decision.
BENEFITS OF SEEING A NURSE PRACTITIONER
Because of their dedication to high-quality care, nurse practitioners (NPs) are viewed as your partner in your journey to better health. NPs treat you as a whole person, not just your symptoms, to help you experience mind and body wellness. Patients report a higher level of satisfaction after receiving care from an NP.
Nurse practitioners are cost effective in the long run. Patients who utilize NPs as their primary care providers have lower medication costs, fewer instances of emergency room visits, reduced admissions, and shorter hospital stays. Patients save an average of 20 percent on visits alone when compared to being treated by a physician. Â
The initial investment of time and money upfront will enhance your return on investment in the future.
WHAT INSURANCE IS CURRENTLY ACCEPTED?
In-network with: Aetna, Cigna, Oscar Health, Oxford, and United Healthcare.
Pending approval: Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield